Recently, Tatum wrote about the Inspiration to Go software that allows you to create and save projects without being connected to the Inspiration cutter. My husband and I travel by car quite a bit and I have developed an affinity for gadgets that allow my creative juices to flow even while on the road. The Inspiration to Go software is the pivot point for all my other ‘geeky’ devices. Allow me to give you some tips on how to get the most out of your Inspiration to Go software while traveling.
The first thing you will need is a way to power your computer, since a laptop battery will only last a few hours. I power my laptop by using a power convertor that plugs into a cigarette lighter socket. I did a search on the internet and found several models ranging in price from $30.00 to $100.00. They can also be found at most computer stores.
Next you need a mini mouse that connects to the computer with a USB cord. Because you are working in a confined space a mini mouse is more convenient. Why the mouse with a cord? So you can easily retrieve it if you drop it! I also covered the flat section of my laptop just to the right of the touchpad with a clear protective plastic so I can use it for my mouse pad. I actually use the transfer tape from our vinyl kit, it has a texture to it that makes moving the mouse easy and it is removeable.
As evening approaches it can get hard to see the keyboard so I suggest using a clip-on reading light to illuminate the keys. I found one that uses power from the computer by plugging into a USB port. That means you don’t have to worry about batteries. A laptop can generate a lot of heat so I recommend a padded lap desk to set your laptop on. It also raises it to a better height reducing strain the wrists. The one I have is by Belkin and is called a ‘Cushtop’.
Flash drives are handy for storing all kinds of necessary files such as clip art and fonts. You might also want to splurge on a wireless card for your computer. You can purchase one through your cell phone company. The wireless card allows you to connect to the internet while on the road.
You can see how I have used my love of gadgets and the Inspiration to Go software to keep me creating on the road. Incredibly, it is possible to be extremely efficient in a very small space. I love this because let’s get real, I don’t think my husband would go for an Inspiration in the back seat of the car. (Hmm…I bet it would fit nicely though!)
LOL…..I wish that I could do these things. My husband and I travel by car because my vertigo doesn’t allow me to fly anymore. But, when it is late, I find myself watching to make sure that he doesn’t nod off at the wheel. I think that I watch the road more than he does.
As for the IOTG….I loved it when I had it. I misplaced the key. I used it all of the time and did a lot of designing in hotel rooms. I know that little stinker is in this house somewhere. It went missing when I had grand children here for the summer. I was a little distracted. I keep thinking that I need to break down and buy a new one….but in the back of my head…I keep thinking that I will come upon it. It drives me crazy…LOL!
Anyway…glad that I am not the only one who is always designing something somewhere. My brain just never seems to shut down!
I’m a total technogeek! I too love my computers and gadgets. It drives my hubby nuts when Christmas or my birthday rolls around and all I want are technie gadgets, software or computer things that he knows next to nothing about! 😀 He always says, “Why can’t you be a NORMAL girl who likes jewelry and clothes?” Bwahahaha!
Mary, you know that you and I were twins parted at birth don’t you? We like the same style of scrapbooking, love paper piecing and have to have all that geeky stuff too!!
ROTFLOL! 😀 I love having a twin like you!
I’m sure Simon remembers when I first found out the Pazzles software had to run through a computer and I almost died on the spot!! Computers……not me!! But here I am…a few years later and doing MUCH better than I thought I ever would…….and now I want techno toys too, but I’m just not quite in your league YET!!
But I agree….my husband does wonder why I don’t want jewelry, but would rather have tools!!
haha it’s so funny because I’m not a huge jewelry person either. I have one beautiful pair of chandelier earring and I’m happy. Where are all these ladies who are in to jewelry? Do they exist?
Yes they do. I know quite a few and find it hard to believe we’re friends!!
Does this softwear work just for the Inspiration, or will it work for the Pro also. If it works for the Pro, I need to put it on my Christmas list!
I was reading through the replies and it just cracks me up!!! How birds of a feather…..I am the same way. I would SO rather have tools than jewelry. Heck I don’t even wear my wedding ring much anymore. I am going to have to get that little on the go key soon!
GADGET GEEKS UNITE…….I love the little light that goes into the computer, they also have a fan to you you cooled off, if needed (my inner child plays with matches a lot, so, I like this..*grin.